business – Be Gallant Coaching

I was talking with one of my 1-on-1 clients last week about in-person networking strategy (because most of us go into these events without a plan). What I shared with her is the game plan I’m sharing with you now.

Reframing Networking: It’s Not About the Big Win

Most people walk into networking events thinking, “I need to make a really strong impression and land a job, client, or deal right away.”

Totally relatable—but that’s an unrealistically high bar to set for yourself. And putting that kind of pressure on a single interaction? Exhausting.

Instead, shift your mindset: The real goal of networking isn’t to “close the deal.” It’s to set up your next conversation.

A Simple Strategy for Networking Success

The best way to make networking less overwhelming and more effective is to focus on small, achievable goals rather than trying to hit a home run in every conversation. Here’s how:

✅ Set clear, attainable targets

“I’m going to get the contact info of 4 people.”
“I’ll casually pitch my professional brand to 2 people.”

Small wins add up over time. Instead of treating networking like a sprint, approach it as a marathon. You’re laying the foundation for meaningful connections that will grow after the event.

The Power of the Follow-Up

Successful networking isn’t about one magical conversation. It’s about the follow-up.

The real value of networking events happens in the days, weeks, and months after—when you nurture relationships, build trust, and create opportunities.

So, if you’ve ever felt the pressure to “perform” at networking events, know that you’re not alone.

Yes, networking still makes my introverted pulse shoot through the roof, too.

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So, I was reading about how employers are trying to leverage AI more instead of hiring actual people–especially young people and new college grads.

Uh oh.

That, of course, got me thinking: How can people stay competitive against not just people, but also the machines that are starting to replace them? How can we demonstrate value to the employers and people with hiring say-so in a way that yells “YOU SHOULD REALLY HIRE ME”?

Well in true Brandon fashion, I did some digging, reflecting, and strategizing. Here’s what I came up with…

1. Develop Human-Centric Skills (Those Soft/Transferable Skills)

AI can process data and perform repetitive tasks really well, but they’re still not at iRobot levels…yet. And even they lacked some pretty core human traits. Empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence remain human strengths.

Focus on problem-solving and adaptability in fast-changing environments.
Emphasize collaboration—show how you’ve led teams, built consensus, or managed relationships.
Storytelling is key. Use it to demonstrate how you’ve solved problems creatively or improved team dynamics.

💡 Example: In a job application or interview, highlight moments when you adapted to unforeseen challenges or went beyond the technical solution to build trust and rapport or inspire others.

2. Learn to Work with AI (It’s Not Us VS Them–For Now)

Tech is useful and employers love candidates who embrace technology rather than fear it.

Get comfortable with relevant AI tools (e.g., AI for marketing automation, content creation, data analysis, or instructional design).
Frame yourself as a “tech-savvy collaborator” who can integrate AI to optimize workflows, not replace human touch.
Upskill continuously. Focus on in-demand tech skills like automation, data literacy, or AI-enhanced decision-making.

💡 Example: If you’ve used ChatGPT to create first drafts, analyze customer feedback, or improve workflows, share that experience! Employers want to see practical use cases.

3. Focus on Strategic Thinking & Innovation

AI excels at executing tasks but lacks the ability to strategically plan or innovate from scratch.

Show how you’ve contributed to long-term planning, launched innovative solutions, or driven strategic change.
Highlight your curiosity and continuous improvement mindset. Employers are looking for people who challenge the status quo and think bigger.

💡 Example: “While working on [project], I identified a gap in [process] and introduced [new solution], which led to [tangible result].”

4. Build a Personal Brand & Network

Brand. And then develop your brand. And then develop it some more! Having a strong personal brand makes you stand out in the job market.

Share your expertise and insights on platforms like LinkedIn or industry-specific communities.
Network strategically—build connections with thought leaders, recruiters, and peers in your field.
Be authentic and visible. Employers value candidates with a unique perspective and strong presence.

💡 Example: Post articles, share projects, or engage in discussions about how your field is evolving with AI. This shows you’re informed and invested in the future.

5. Demonstrate Results & ROI

The job seekers I coach hear me say this all the time: Ultimately what employers care about is that you can move the needle. They want people who can show clear impact and value creation.

Use your resume and interviews to highlight your achievements (cost savings, efficiency improvements, revenue growth, program success, etc.).
Position yourself as someone who makes data-driven decisions and delivers measurable outcomes.

💡 Example: Instead of saying, “I managed social media,” say, “I used AI analytics to increase social engagement by 35% and contributed to a 10% sales boost in six months.”

6. Be a Lifelong Learner

The workforce is evolving, y’all, and staying relevant means learning and evolving with it.

Take online courses, attend webinars, and earn certifications in emerging technologies or fields.
Stay up-to-date on industry trends and future skill demands.
Show curiosity and adaptability—employers appreciate candidates who are excited about change.

💡 Resources: Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or industry-specific learning hubs.

7. Prioritize Ethical Thinking and Human Values

In a world driven by AI, ethics and human-centric leadership are becoming critical.

If you’ve worked on projects where you balanced technology with user experience, ethics, or community impact, showcase that experience.
Highlight your commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion (YES DEI matters and I don’t care what anybody says to the contrary), and user-centered design.

💡 Example: “I ensured our training program incorporated diverse perspectives and addressed accessibility, helping us achieve [specific outcome].”

It’s getting tricky out there, but we can still win. Keep evolving with the times, keep getting those apps out, and keep networking. We’ll get there!

🔥 Feeling stuck or ready for your next big move? Join The Brave Club, where bold career changers and go-getters come together to grow, learn, and level up! This group program is packed with expert career coaching, live demonstrations, and an inspiring community that’s here to help you crush your goals and build the career you want—on your terms.

💬 What you’ll get:

Weekly group coaching calls with actionable advice
Tools to help you build confidence and stay focused
A community of brave, like-minded professionals who get it

👉 Learn more and join us: The Brave Club

The next cycle starts Tuesday, February 11th! Join today for only $129 to reserve your spot. Registration is closing soon so let’s get to it!